The sound that Tinariwen makes is a remarkable one. With guitars at the forefront, you may think that they are playing the blues, but it is steeped in the desert music of Mali, where the band originates. The question, did American rock and blues records influence them? Or is the sound of their country's assouf music shape what we know recognize as the blues?
In any case, it is a rich and joyful experience. Even moreso when they welcomed an man identified only as "Bill, my friend from Chicago" to the stage at City Winery Chicago on Saturday. Check the video below to see how well the his blues playing complements Tinariwen's sound, bringing their musical journey full circle in a way. Many thanks to Wyatt Brake (zepcowboy) was on hand to document it and allow us to publish the photos below.
Here is what went down:
Tinde
Nazagh EIBal
Kunten Telay
Adunya
'63'
Kud Edazamin
Tin Ihlan
Mafel Nedress
Tamatent
Cler Achel
Amassakoul
Toumast Tincha
Tamadrit
Matanam
Encore:
Tahalamot
Sastan & Achraybone
